Paul Bayliss notched up an impressive 5th RS700 National Title at Torquay this week. But, with a record turn-out of over 50 700s, Bayliss points out that the win ‘wasn’t a foregone conclusion by any means.’

With a group of sailors, including old rival Tim Johnson, Steve Butcher, and Matt Humphries, snapping at this heels, each race was potentially pivotal. The event was still wide open at the end of Day 1, which saw Andy White and Steve Butcher gain a bullet. With two bullets marking the first consistent results of the event on Day 2, Bayliss took the lead, which was consolidated by a perfect scoreline on Day 3.

Consistency paid off for Johnson, who came 2nd, and a return to form on the last day gained White 3rd. There was a real mix of experience and ability amongst the fleet, which was unanimously characterised by its friendliness. Richard Allen, a relative newcomer to the class, described the racing as an ‘absolute spectacle’, and enthused that the free onshore coaching and support made the whole event ‘accessible’. Generous sponsorship from Gul, Seasure, Hyde Sails, Harken, C2 Marine, and LDC Racing Sailboats, providing free evening meals, a wealth of prizes, and Go-Karting, meant that the £69 entry fee was great value for money.

The Race Team at the Royal Torbay Yacht Club did an excellent job in a wide range of conditions, while everyone at the Club – in close proximity to a new slipway – made everyone feel welcome. Speaking positively about the class commented: “The weight equalisation means that height and weight aren’t really an issue, and there is a real mix of people in the fleet. The boat is a thoroughbred and, as an RS boat, the social scene is world class too!”